Bhutan Holidays

Journey to a Himalayan mountain kingdom

As you’ll discover on a Bhutan holiday, snow-capped Himalayan backdrops only add to the magic of this mysterious mountain kingdom.

Bhutan’s epithet, Land of the Thunder Dragon, may be a reference to its branch of Buddhism, but it paints a compelling picture of a mysterious and exotic land. Defined by snowy Himalayan peaks, it’s easy to imagine why this mountainous kingdom is a place where the legend of the yeti lives on.

The only country in the world to measure its own prosperity by how happy its population is, Bhutan isn’t afraid to do things differently. Journey to Bhutan and witness ancient traditions preserved as they’ve been for centuries. Discover sweeping Himalayan backdrops, meet friendly locals and see enigmatic monasteries clinging improbably to steep valley sides.

Includes All our small group tours to Asia, including Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.

Paro

This historic town is small enough for you to get to know it with a leisurely stroll round its quiet streets. Discover the ins and outs of Paro's military history at the Paro Dzong, a fortress that's seen its fair share of skirmishes. Venture up the slopes of the picturesque Paro Valley and see Paro's most iconic sight: the Taktsang Goemba, or Tiger's Nest Monastery, perched precariously on the cliffside. If you travel here in March, you could join in with the festivities of the colourful Paro Festival, one of the biggest in Bhutan's religious calendar.

Punakha

17th century Punakha was Bhutan's capital for 300 years until the 1950s; the country's first king was crowned here in 1907. You might notice that it has a milder climate, which makes for a pleasant experience of exploring its captivating monastery. Occupying a commanding position on an island at the confluence of the rivers Pho Chu and Mo Chu, this impressive building looks at its best in spring, when it's surrounded by beautiful lilac blooms.

Thimphu

Thimphu is Bhutan's diminutive capital and largest city, located 2,300m up in the Thimphu Valley and distinguished from other capital cities by the curious fact of its being the only one to have no traffic lights. Home to the King, the city has numerous historical sites for you to explore, notably the magnificent Trashi Chhoe Dzong. There's also a colourful weekend market, held on the banks of the Wang Chhu, where, among bizarre provisions such as yak leg, you can buy incense so that you can take the evocative smells of Bhutan back home with you.

bhutan
highlights

Attend a traditional festival

Climb to Tiger’s Nest near Paro

Ascend
the path to Taktsang Goemba, known as the ‘Tiger’s Nest’ monastery. This
cliff-side monastery perched high above the Paro Valley is Bhutan’s most famous
and the trek is richly rewarded with spectacular views and a historic temple
complex.

Discover the dzongs

First
built in the 12th century, dzongs have played an important part in the history
of Bhutan, originally used as monasteries, they later became defensive
positions as well as being used for religious and cultural activities. Dzongs
have also stored national treasures, books and records, as well as weapons.
These days they house local government offices and host important ceremonies.